Indigenous Counselling in Alberta
Indigenous Counselling for Cultural Connection and Personal Growth
Indigenous counselling in Alberta offers a safe, supportive space to explore identity, healing, and well-being—without judgment. Whether you’re connecting with your culture, facing challenges, or seeking guidance, we’re here to support you. Virtual sessions make it easy to access care from wherever you feel most comfortable. You don’t have to do this alone—we’ve got you.
Indigenous Counselling in Alberta
Indigenous Counselling for Cultural Connection and Personal Growth
Indigenous counselling in Alberta offers a safe, supportive space to explore identity, healing, and well-being—without judgment. Whether you’re connecting with your culture, facing challenges, or seeking guidance, we’re here to support you. Virtual sessions make it easy to access care from wherever you feel most comfortable. You don’t have to do this alone—we’ve got you.
What is indigenous counselling?
Indigenous counselling is all about bringing your full, authentic self to the table—no pretending, no judgment. It’s a space where you can explore your identity, reconnect with your roots, and tackle whatever life throws your way. Whether you’re navigating cultural challenges, dealing with family dynamics, or just looking to heal, indigenous counselling blends tradition with modern support to help you thrive. Think of it as a blend of wisdom from the past and tools for the future, all while making sure you feel grounded and supported. Plus, it’s virtual, so you can get that support wherever you’re at.
What can indigenous counselling help with?
- Reconnecting with cultural identity and heritage
- Navigating intergenerational trauma and healing
- Understanding and embracing spiritual beliefs and practices
- Overcoming family dynamics and building stronger relationships
- Managing stress and anxiety rooted in cultural experiences
- Exploring self-esteem and confidence within cultural contexts
- Dealing with the effects of colonization and its impact on mental health
- Coping with grief and loss, especially related to community or family
- Developing coping skills to face challenges unique to Indigenous communities
- Strengthening connection to land and ancestral teachings for healing
Our Process
What to expect in an indigenous counselling session.
In an Indigenous counselling session, you’ll find a supportive space to explore your identity, heal, and gain tools to navigate life’s challenges, all while honouring your culture.
Step 1
Reach Out
Step 2
Connect & Ground
Step 3
Heal & Reflect
Step 4
Grow & Empower
Step 5
Move Forward
Who can benefit from indigenous counselling?
- Individuals exploring cultural identity and heritage
- Those navigating intergenerational trauma
- People seeking to reconnect with their spiritual beliefs and practices
- Individuals facing challenges with family dynamics and relationships
- People dealing with the effects of colonization on mental health
- People seeking spiritual healing and connection to land
Coverage for indigenous clients.
Treaty Status
Got treaty status? Awesome! That means you might be eligible for up to 20 therapy sessions a year through First Nations Inuit Health Benefits (FNIHB or NIHB). Just keep in mind that NIHB only covers sessions with Registered Psychologists (like me!) and Registered Clinical Social Workers who are approved providers. Other mental health professionals, like the ones below, aren’t included:
- Interns
- Practicum Students
- Mental Health Therapists
- Provisional Psychologists
- Provisional Psychologists
Right now, NIHB coverage can be used for Individual Counselling—whether you’re a youth, adult, or elder—and even Group Therapy if that’s more your style!
Bigstone
Bigstone works a lot like NIHB, but it’s specifically for members of Bigstone Cree Nation. If that’s you, you can apply by sending in an application with your Bigstone Treaty number and get up to 20 therapy sessions a year. Just a heads-up—this coverage only applies to sessions with Registered Psychologists (like me!) and Registered Clinical Social Workers.
IRS RHSP
If you’ve been affected by Residential Schools, Day Schools, or Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, you may be eligible for coverage through the Residential School Program (IRS RHSP). This program offers up to 60 therapy sessions per year and is available to both those with and without Treaty Status.
IRS coverage can be used for Individual Counselling (for youth, adults, and elders), Couples Counselling, Family Counselling, and Group Therapy. Just a note—this program only covers sessions with Registered Psychologists (like me!) and Registered Clinical Social Workers.
Jordan's Principle
Jordan’s Principle was created in honour of Jordan River Anderson, a young boy from Norway House Cree Nation in Manitoba. The program helps families access various services for their children, including mental health support.
To apply, parents or caregivers need to submit an application along with two letters of support. The number of sessions depends on the child’s needs, and the best part? Jordan’s Principle covers all mental health professionals! You don’t need to live on reserve or have Treaty Status—just as long as a parent or caregiver does. Applications go directly through Jordan’s Principle.
Metis Nation
The Métis Nation offers support for Métis members who need counselling services. The details can vary, so it’s a good idea to reach out to your nation to find out how to access coverage. Not sure where to begin? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back and can help you out!
Nations Band Coverage
Certain bands may offer additional funding or assistance for mental health services, along with other types of financial support. We suggest reaching out to your nation office to find out if this is available and which professionals are covered. If you need a letter of support, your mental health provider can usually assist with that as well!
Treaty Status
Got treaty status? Awesome! That means you might be eligible for up to 20 therapy sessions a year through First Nations Inuit Health Benefits (FNIHB or NIHB). Just keep in mind that NIHB only covers sessions with Registered Psychologists (like me!) and Registered Clinical Social Workers who are approved providers. Other mental health professionals, like the ones below, aren’t included:
- Interns
- Practicum Students
- Mental Health Therapists
- Registered Provisional Psychologist
Right now, NIHB coverage can be used for Individual Counselling—whether you’re a youth, adult, or elder—and even Group Therapy if that’s more your style!
Bigstone
Bigstone works a lot like NIHB, but it’s specifically for members of Bigstone Cree Nation. If that’s you, you can apply by sending in an application with your Bigstone Treaty number and get up to 20 therapy sessions a year. Just a heads-up—this coverage only applies to sessions with Registered Psychologists (like me!) and Registered Clinical Social Workers.
IRS RHSP
If you’ve been affected by Residential Schools, Day Schools, or Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, you may be eligible for coverage through the Residential School Program (IRS RHSP). This program offers up to 60 therapy sessions per year and is available to both those with and without Treaty Status.
IRS coverage can be used for Individual Counselling (for youth, adults, and elders), Couples Counselling, Family Counselling, and Group Therapy. Just a note—this program only covers sessions with Registered Psychologists (like me!) and Registered Clinical Social Workers.
Jordan's Principle
Jordan’s Principle was created in honour of Jordan River Anderson, a young boy from Norway House Cree Nation in Manitoba. The program helps families access various services for their children, including mental health support.
To apply, parents or caregivers need to submit an application along with two letters of support. The number of sessions depends on the child’s needs, and the best part? Jordan’s Principle covers all mental health professionals! You don’t need to live on reserve or have Treaty Status—just as long as a parent or caregiver does. Applications go directly through Jordan’s Principle.
Metis Nation
The Métis Nation offers support for Métis members who need counselling services. The details can vary, so it’s a good idea to reach out to your nation to find out how to access coverage. Not sure where to begin? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back and can help you out!
Nations Band Coverage
Certain bands may offer additional funding or assistance for mental health services, along with other types of financial support. We suggest reaching out to your nation office to find out if this is available and which professionals are covered. If you need a letter of support, your mental health provider can usually assist with that as well!
frequently asked questions
Answers to your questions about indigenous counselling.
How do I book a virtual indigenous counselling session in Alberta?
You can book a session online through our website.
How much does indigenous counselling cost in Alberta?
The cost of indigenous counselling varies depending on the therapist and session length. Some extended health plans may cover it—check with your insurance provider for details.
Does Ikigai Integrative offer direct billing?
We do! We offer direct billing for the following insurance companies:
- Great West Life
- Alberta Blue Cross
- Standard Life
- Industrial Alliance
- Manulife
- Desjardins Insurance
- Chambers of Commerce Group of Insurance
- And many more…
Is indigenous counselling confidential?
How does virtual indigenous counselling work?
Virtual indigenous counselling uses secure video conferencing to connect you with a counsellor who understands the unique challenges and strengths of Indigenous individuals. You can access support from the comfort of your home, no matter where you are in Alberta. It’s flexible, confidential, and effective.
Take the First Step Toward Healing and Growth
Start your journey today with Indigenous counselling. Whether you’re reconnecting with your culture, healing from trauma, or seeking support for personal challenges, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Book a 100% virtual session and begin your path to empowerment.